Standard English Name(s): banana
slug
Local English Name(s): "snail"
Scientific Name(s): Ariolimax columbianus (Gould)
Upriver Halkomelem Name(s):
Downriver Halkomelem Name(s):
Island Halkomelem Name(s):
Description, Habitat, Ecology, & Distribution:
This is the largest species of terrestrial
mollusk in the Pacific Northwest, reaching 15 cm (6 in) in length. Banana
slugs vary in colour from olive to dark brown, often with black blotches
or spots. This woodland slug feeds on a variety of plant foods. Banana
slugs are found in forested regions from southeast Alaska to northern
California.
Upriver Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
This slug is used as a depilatory
medicine. A person wishing to remove hair on some part of the body would
apply a slug to that area. Afterward, the person would release the living
slug.
Downriver Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
Island Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):